Audio Interface is used to record the sound or audio from the computer. The main function of the audio interface is to record any playback sound and translate it into the system. Also, it is called an A/D converter. The sound is converted using a microphone and cable. The transformed sound can be edited, stored, and mixed with other sounds. Once the playback sound is converted on the computer, it then throws out the sound to the monitor speakers, and you can listen to it. This process is D/A conversion. This is the way how audio interfaces work. The following are the top ten audio interfaces for macOS systems with their features.
1. Focus Scarlett 2i2:
Focus Scarlett 2i2is one of the most-used audio interfaces for Mac OS X. It incorporates advanced and revolutionary features in it. It has high-performance 24-bit/192kHz converters. The best feature of this interface is it has super-low latency that enables users to regulate with native plug-in effects. The system requirement for the Focus Scarlett 2i2 audio interface is it requires macOS 10.12 and later versions. Additionally, it is also compatible to work with iPad Pro devices. The features include two high-headroom instrument inputs, two balanced line inputs, halo level indicators, a switchable air mode, balanced TRS L/R monitor outputs, headphone output, USB bus-powered, quick start tool, and many others.
2. Focusrite Scarlett Solo:
Focusrite Scarlett Solo is one of the simplest USB audio interfaces for macOS operating systems. The 3rd generation of this interface is very easy to use and provides a good user interface. This interface is incredibly reliable and strong. There is a support team, which offers complete support and help to any problem occurring. Additionally, there is a three years warranty offered. It supports iPad Pro devices. Also, it has been tested for various other macOS applications and works well with Garageband, Auria Pro, Amplify Launchpad, and many others. There is a headroom instrument input, easy start tool, and high-performance converts incorporated in it that makes recording easier and faster.
3. M-Audio M-Track 2X2:
M-Audio M-Track 2X2 is another audio interface that goes very well with macOS operating systems. Users can develop 24bit/192kHz high-quality recording using this hardware. Additionally, it has an intuitive and easy to use user interface. This hardware for macOS is one of the best audio interfaces as it has more transparent and low-noise A/D converters. Users can record up to two channels at the same time through M-Audio M-Track 2X2 hardware. The features of this hardware include crystal clear recording, ultra-portable studio-grade recording, future-proofed high-speed, zero-latency recording, touch loops, pro tools First, etc. Users can connect their PCs or MacBooks via USB.
4. PreSonus Audiobox USB 96:
One of the well-known and popular audio interfaces for Mac OS X is the PreSonus Audiobox USB 96. Like others, it also has a sound resolution of 24-bit/192kHz. The best part of this hardware is it bus-powered and is specially developed to travel. It has two combo mics, which are ideal for singers, songwriters, podcasts, and guitarists. Along with the two combo mic or inputs, it also has two balanced line outputs. Additionally, it has a 48 voltage power for the M7 condenser microphone. It supports zero-latency monitoring through the internal mixer and has MIDI I/O. It is specially developed to work with the Studio One recording software.
5. Apogee ONE For Mac:
Apogee ONE For Mac is another powerful and fully-featured audio interface for Mac OS X. This interface is all-in-one and is highly portable. It has a built-in omnidirectional microphone incorporated. Users can record their recordings through the microphone as well as the guitar simultaneously. It has a 24-bit/192kHz A/D converter with a 2.0 USB connection. Apogee ONE For Mac has low latency and seamless compatibility with Mac OS X. Additionally, it encompasses two analog inputs, two analog outputs, direct monitoring facility, wave plug-ins, die-cast aluminum chassis, legendary Apogee sound quality, and many other features. This hardware also works well with apps like GarageBand, Logic Pro X, and many others.
6. Behringer UMC404HD Audiophile:
Another most popular and robust audio interface for macOS operating systems is Behringer UMC404HD Audiophile. This is one of the best interfaces for recording microphones and instruments. It offers Audiophiles 24-bit/192kHz resolution. The features include four analog inputs, four analog outputs, four state-of-art, Midas designed Mic Preamplifiers, analog inserts, zero latency, direct monitoring, Playback mic control, and Stereo or Mono switch, and many others. Additionally, it has four pure and world-class Mic preamps. These mic preamps include +48 phantom voltage power that offers the best sound quality.
7. Tascam Celesonic US20*20:
Tascam Celesonic US20*20 is another popular and sturdy audio interface, which is compatible with macOS operating systems. The best feature of this hardware is it encompasses 20 channels of analog and digital I/O into a single rack space. There are a total of eight ultra-HDD microphone preamps that offer 56dB of gain. The features include ADAT and S/PDIF connectors, world clock, external clocks, like TASCAM’s CG-1000, ten channels of digital I/O, MIDI I/O, many others. The sound resolution supported by this hardware is 24-bit/192kHz. Additionally, it supports ultra-low-latency and also supports working with Microsoft Windows operating systems.
8. Apogee Duet For Mac:
Another audio interface for macOS operating systems is Apogee Duet for Mac. The Apogee Duet for Mac is the better choice than the Apogee ONE for Mac audio interface. It is one of the most respected interfaces across the globe. Duet audio interface has received numerous awards. This hardware offers an easy to use interface and also provides the best sound quality. The features of this hardware are highly robust and advanced. Apogee Duet for Mac incorporates professional mic preamps, professional converters, four outputs, independent speaker, headphone outs, balanced outputs, offers 24-bit.192kHz sound resolution, full-color OLED display, configurable touchpads, and Maestro 2 software.
9. Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII:
Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII is another highly advanced audio interface for Mac OS X. It has encompassed more enhanced and improved monitor functionality into it, which makes it stand at the top place, among others. The best and extraordinary feature is it has Mute, DIM, Mono, and ALT speaker switching capabilities. It has A/D and D/A converters. Additionally, it incorporates the LUNA recording system, which is a fully-inspired music production application. Also, it involves award-winning plug-ins, like vintage EQs, Compressors, Reverbs, Tape Machines, and many others. The other features include talkback mic, networked studio, vintage amps, low-latency, unison technology, etc.
10. Focusrite Scarlett OctoPre Dynamic:
Focusrite Scarlett OctoPre Dynamic is another audio interface of Focusrite. This is the most advanced and fully-featured audio interface. This interface has eight-channel preamps, ADAT interface, 2nd generation Scarlett preamps, 24-bit/192kHZ A/D and D/A converters, dual instrument inputs, analog compressor on each channel, 48 phantom voltage power for every channel, BNC world clock I/O, balanced line outputs, eight combination inputs, and many others. This audio interface is best suited for studio use as well as for live performance use. The software tools, like Softube Time and Tone Bundle, are integrated into the Focusrite Scarlett OctoPre Dynamic interface. Additionally, there is a Focusrite Red 3 plug-in suite incorporated in it.
